Important Preliminary Insights for Designing Successful Communication between a Robotic Learning Assistant and Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Germany

Abstract

Early therapeutic intervention programs help children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) to improve their socio-emotional and functional skills. To relieve the children’s caregivers while ensuring that the children are adequately supported in their training exercises, new technologies may offer suitable solutions. This study investigates the potential of a robotic learning assistant which is planned to monitor the children’s state of engagement and to intervene with appropriate motivational nudges when necessary. To analyze stakeholder requirements, interviews with parents as well as therapists of children with ASD were conducted. Besides a general positive attitude towards the usage of new technologies, we received some important insights for the design of the robot and its interaction with the children. One strongly accentuated aspect was the robot’s adequate and context-specific communication behavior, which we plan to address via an AI-based engagement detection system. Further aspects comprise for instance customizability, adaptability, and variability of the robot’s behavior, which should further be not too distracting while still being highly predictable.

Design of a Mobile Application to Improve the Therapy Process in Children with Autism

“…After calculating the points, the overall mean score was 4.61, which exceeded the minimum mean requirement. At [33], the screening method was used, achieving a 93% success rate. In addition, to assess the efficiency, usability, design, and functionality, the mean scores were calculated and obtained as 4.27, 4.75, 4.87, and 4.57, respectively.…”

A scoping review of artificial intelligence-based robot therapy for children with disabilities

“…A technological system that integrates artificial intelligence algorithms with robotics to create a platform capable of providing therapeutic interactions and interventions. This platform could involve a robot equipped with AI capabilities to engage individuals, particularly those with special needs in therapeutic activities [10]. Notably, certain researchers employed a compact robotic toy as the foundation for their AIbased robot platform [11].…”

“…Cozmo is a compact robot, measuring approximately 7.2 inches in length, 5.6 inches in width, and 6.5 inches in height [10]. It features a small head with an light emitting diode (LED) display, a video graphics array (VGA) camera capable of capturing 30 frames per second, four motors, and over 50 gears.…”

“…Applied behaviour analysis (ABA) is a method of therapy that uses principles of learning and motivation to improve social, communication, and learning skills for children while focusing on teaching children to communicate actively and effectively, improve their social development, minimize inappropriate behaviours, develop academic abilities, and enhance their independence [10], [15], [30], [44]. The social motivation theory of ASD suggests that individuals with ASD may be more motivated to interact with robots because robots are likeable, have repetitive behaviours, have a simple appearance, and do not judge socially [45], [46].…”

Exploring the Potential of Social Robots for Speech and Language Therapy: A Review and Analysis of Interactive Scenarios

“…In [51], the authors investigate the potential of a robotic learning assistant which could monitor the engagement of children with ASD and support them when necessary. The scientists focused on acceptable and content-specific behavior of the robot which they handled through an AI-based detection system.…”